Karnataka Speaker disqualifies 3 rebel Cong MLAs

Bengaluru, July 25

Karnataka Assembly Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar today disqualified three rebel Congress MLAs under the anti-defection law, in a move that heightened suspense over government formation in the state two days after the collapse of the Congress-JD(S) rule.

Kumar said the resignation by the three MLAs — Ramesh Jarkiholi, Mahesh Kumatalli and R Shankar — was “not voluntary and genuine” and, therefore, proceeded to disqualify them with immediate effect till the end of the term of the current House in 2023.

“A member disqualified under the anti-defection law cannot contest or get elected till the end of the term of the present House,” the Speaker said, adding that he would decide on both resignations and disqualification pleas in respect of 14 other MLAs “in the next couple of days”, which may prolong the political turmoil and have a bearing on government formation.

Since Shankar, earlier recognised as an Independent, had ‘merged’ his KPJP with Congress, he also faced the action as its member based on the petition by the Congress seeking his disqualification. — PTI